Selmer Musical Instruments

Henri Selmer Paris is a world-renowned manufacturer of high-end woodwind and brass instruments, particularly famous for its professional-grade saxophones and clarinets. Founded in 1885 by Henri Selmer, the brand established itself as a pinnacle of French craftsmanship in the heart of Paris. Its instruments became the gold standard for jazz and classical musicians globally during the 20th century.

Manufacturing for the premium professional line remains centered in Mantes-la-Ville, France. However, the brand's history is split between its French artisan roots and its American commercial expansion. The Conn-Selmer division handles student and intermediate lines, with production facilities in the United States and specialized manufacturing partnerships in Asia to serve different market segments.

Today, the 'Henri Selmer Paris' brand is primarily owned by the investment firm Argos Wityu, which acquired a majority stake in 2018. This transition marked a significant shift from over a century of family ownership to a private equity model aimed at modernizing production while maintaining the brand's heritage of excellence. The American counterpart, Conn-Selmer, operates under Steinway Musical Instruments, owned by Paulson & Co.